File recovery in Windows 10 and 11 can be essential when accidental deletions, system crashes, or corruption occur. This guide explores practical, step-by-step methods to recover files, catering to both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, we’ll touch on optimization tools like Glary Utilities to keep your system running smoothly.
Understanding Windows File Recovery
Before diving into recovery methods, it’s crucial to understand how Windows handles file deletions. When a file is deleted, it’s not immediately erased from the drive; instead, the space it occupies is marked as available for new data. Thus, recovery is possible until that space is overwritten.
For Beginners: Easy File Recovery Techniques
1. Check the Recycle Bin
– Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop.
– Browse through the files listed to find the one you accidentally deleted.
– Right-click the file and select “Restore” to return it to its original location.
2. Use File History
– Ensure File History is enabled: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup > Add a drive, and select an external drive or network location.
– To restore files, go to Control Panel > System and Security > File History.
– Click “Restore personal files” and browse through the available backups to find the desired file.
– Select the file and click the green “Restore” button.
3. Restore Previous Versions
– Navigate to the folder where the deleted file existed.
– Right-click the folder and choose “Restore previous versions.”
– Browse the available versions and select a date when the file existed.
– Click “Restore” to recover the file.
Optimizing File Recovery Using Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities provides tools such as file undelete that simplify the recovery process:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open the application and navigate to the “Modules” tab.
– Under “Privacy & Security,” select “File Undelete.”
– Choose the drive where the file was deleted and click “Search.”
– Browse the list of recoverable files, select the desired file, and click “Restore.”
For Advanced Users: Sophisticated Recovery Methods
1. Use Command Prompt for File Recovery
– Press Win + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin).”
– Type ‘chkdsk X: /f’ (replace X: with your drive letter) to fix file system errors.
– Use ‘attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.*’ to display hidden and read-only files, potentially revealing lost files.
2. Utilize System Restore
– Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu and open it.
– Click “System Restore” and follow the prompts to restore your system to a previous state where the files were present.
3. Third-Party Recovery Tools
– Besides Glary Utilities, consider Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery for more advanced recovery features.
– Install the tool, follow their guided recovery process, and search for the deleted files on the targeted drive.
Preventing Future File Loss
To minimize the risk of future file loss, regularly back up your data using Windows Backup or third-party software. Periodically check your backup systems to ensure they are functioning correctly. Routine maintenance and system checks using tools like Glary Utilities can prevent file system errors and enhance overall system performance.
In conclusion, file recovery in Windows 10 and 11 is manageable with the right tools and techniques. Whether using built-in features or third-party software like Glary Utilities, maintaining regular backups and keeping your system optimized are crucial steps in safeguarding your data. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, these methods equip you to handle file recoveries effectively.